For seven decades, Erie concertgoers have been enjoying the music of the Erie Philharmonic Chorus, and this week, they got a visit from Loving Giving Local.

The Erie Philharmonic Chorus is always a treat at the annual Home for the Holidays pop concert.

Over 90 voices strong, the chorus presents concerts throughout the year at various venues.

“We have an adult chorus that has been in existence since 1953. They rehearse weekly and sing with the orchestra, and they also do concerts and performances on their own. About two years ago, we started a program for children and youth, so we have a vocal academy now for children in second grade through 12th grade. We have a comprehensive program for any age or ability level,” said Sharon Downey, Erie Philharmonic Youth Choral conductor.

Music is the universal language as it makes both those who sing and those who listen feel better.

The Philharmonic Junior Chorus and Youth Chorale provide unique opportunities.

“We know that the schools can not have comprehensive music training at this level,” Downey continued. “We have the unique opportunity for them to work with professional musicians and sing on that Warner stage, especially now since the transformation of the Warner. It provides opportunities you might see in major cities, but we have it right here in Erie, Pennsylvania.          

This week’s Loving Giving Local donation will be used by the chorus to help buy new music and to provide scholarships to young people for summer music camps. 

“For us to bring Loving Giving Local to the Erie Philharmonic Chorus and to learn that this chorus has been active for over 70 years in the Erie community and we know that this donation will go toward one of their youth programs, they continue to give back, and that’s what Loving Giving Local is all about. We’re happy to be a part of it,” said Joe Askins, sponsor, Auto Express.